Tag: 1860s

Stephen Douglas

Stephen A. Douglas, Advocate of Popular Sovereignty

Stephen Douglas (1813-1861) WHO HE WAS: Stephen Arnold Douglas was a prominent American politician from Illinois, best known for his series of debates with Abraham Lincoln during the 1858 Illinois Senate race. Douglas, often dubbed the “Little Giant” for his diminutive stature but formidable political influence, was a leading advocate for the doctrine of popular

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, portrait by Alexander Gardner

Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) WHO HE WAS: Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is revered as one of the nation’s most iconic leaders. Born in a log cabin and largely self-taught, Lincoln rose from humble beginnings to guide the country through the Civil War, preserving the Union and emancipating slaves. His eloquence, wisdom,

James Buchanan

James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States

James Buchanan (1791-1868) WHO HE WAS: James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States, was the last to serve before the American Civil War. His presidency is often associated with inaction in the face of growing sectional tensions, which ultimately escalated into secession and conflict after he left office. A lifelong bachelor, he was

Emancipation Proclamation

Black man reading newspaper by candlelight Man reading a newspaper with headline, "Presidential Proclamation, Slavery," which refers to the Jan. 1863 Emancipation Proclamation. drawing : watercolor.

Emancipation Proclamation President Abraham Lincoln Washington D.C. 01 January 1863 Initially, the Civil War between North and South was fought by the North to prevent the secession of the Southern states and preserve the Union. Even though sectional conflicts over slavery had been a major cause of the war, ending slavery was not a goal